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Tales of Valdemar #20
A Many-Splintered Thing: All-New Tales of Valdemar
Not yet published
Expected 24 Nov 26This 20th anthology of short stories set in the beloved Valdemar high fantasy universe features tales by debut and established authors and a brand-new short story from Mercedes Lackey herself.
The Heralds of Valdemar are the kingdom's ancient order of protectors. They are drawn from all across the land, from all walks of life, and at all ages—and all are Gifted with abilities beyond those of normal men and women. They are Mindspeakers, FarSeers, Empaths, ForeSeers, Firestarters, FarSpeakers, and more. These inborn talents—combined with training as emissaries, spies, judges, diplomats, scouts, counselors, warriors, and more—make them indispensable to their monarch and realm.
Sought and Chosen by mysterious horse-like Companions, they are bonded for life to these telepathic, enigmatic creatures. The Heralds of Valdemar and their Companions ride circuit throughout the kingdom, protecting the peace and, when necessary, defending their land and monarch.
Join a variety of authors as they ride with Mercedes Lackey to the beloved land of Valdemar and experience the many facets of this storied high fantasy realm.
The Heralds of Valdemar are the kingdom's ancient order of protectors. They are drawn from all across the land, from all walks of life, and at all ages—and all are Gifted with abilities beyond those of normal men and women. They are Mindspeakers, FarSeers, Empaths, ForeSeers, Firestarters, FarSpeakers, and more. These inborn talents—combined with training as emissaries, spies, judges, diplomats, scouts, counselors, warriors, and more—make them indispensable to their monarch and realm.
Sought and Chosen by mysterious horse-like Companions, they are bonded for life to these telepathic, enigmatic creatures. The Heralds of Valdemar and their Companions ride circuit throughout the kingdom, protecting the peace and, when necessary, defending their land and monarch.
Join a variety of authors as they ride with Mercedes Lackey to the beloved land of Valdemar and experience the many facets of this storied high fantasy realm.
- GenresFantasy
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 24, 2026
About the author
Mercedes Lackey
441 books9,820 followersMercedes entered this world on June 24, 1950, in Chicago, had a normal childhood and graduated from Purdue University in 1972. During the late 70's she worked as an artist's model and then went into the computer programming field, ending up with American Airlines in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In addition to her fantasy writing, she has written lyrics for and recorded nearly fifty songs for Firebird Arts & Music, a small recording company specializing in science fiction folk music.
"I'm a storyteller; that's what I see as 'my job'. My stories come out of my characters; how those characters would react to the given situation. Maybe that's why I get letters from readers as young as thirteen and as old as sixty-odd. One of the reasons I write song lyrics is because I see songs as a kind of 'story pill' -- they reduce a story to the barest essentials or encapsulate a particular crucial moment in time. I frequently will write a lyric when I am attempting to get to the heart of a crucial scene; I find that when I have done so, the scene has become absolutely clear in my mind, and I can write exactly what I wanted to say. Another reason is because of the kind of novels I am writing: that is, fantasy, set in an other-world semi-medieval atmosphere. Music is very important to medieval peoples; bards are the chief newsbringers. When I write the 'folk music' of these peoples, I am enriching my whole world, whether I actually use the song in the text or not.
"I began writing out of boredom; I continue out of addiction. I can't 'not' write, and as a result I have no social life! I began writing fantasy because I love it, but I try to construct my fantasy worlds with all the care of a 'high-tech' science fiction writer. I apply the principle of TANSTAAFL ['There ain't no such thing as free lunch', credited to Robert Heinlein) to magic, for instance; in my worlds, magic is paid for, and the cost to the magician is frequently a high one. I try to keep my world as solid and real as possible; people deal with stubborn pumps, bugs in the porridge, and love-lives that refuse to become untangled, right along with invading armies and evil magicians. And I try to make all of my characters, even the 'evil magicians,' something more than flat stereotypes. Even evil magicians get up in the night and look for cookies, sometimes.
"I suppose that in everything I write I try to expound the creed I gave my character Diana Tregarde in Burning Water:
"There's no such thing as 'one, true way'; the only answers worth having are the ones you find for yourself; leave the world better than you found it. Love, freedom, and the chance to do some good -- they're the things worth living and dying for, and if you aren't willing to die for the things worth living for, you might as well turn in your membership in the human race."
Also writes as Misty Lackey
Author's website
"I'm a storyteller; that's what I see as 'my job'. My stories come out of my characters; how those characters would react to the given situation. Maybe that's why I get letters from readers as young as thirteen and as old as sixty-odd. One of the reasons I write song lyrics is because I see songs as a kind of 'story pill' -- they reduce a story to the barest essentials or encapsulate a particular crucial moment in time. I frequently will write a lyric when I am attempting to get to the heart of a crucial scene; I find that when I have done so, the scene has become absolutely clear in my mind, and I can write exactly what I wanted to say. Another reason is because of the kind of novels I am writing: that is, fantasy, set in an other-world semi-medieval atmosphere. Music is very important to medieval peoples; bards are the chief newsbringers. When I write the 'folk music' of these peoples, I am enriching my whole world, whether I actually use the song in the text or not.
"I began writing out of boredom; I continue out of addiction. I can't 'not' write, and as a result I have no social life! I began writing fantasy because I love it, but I try to construct my fantasy worlds with all the care of a 'high-tech' science fiction writer. I apply the principle of TANSTAAFL ['There ain't no such thing as free lunch', credited to Robert Heinlein) to magic, for instance; in my worlds, magic is paid for, and the cost to the magician is frequently a high one. I try to keep my world as solid and real as possible; people deal with stubborn pumps, bugs in the porridge, and love-lives that refuse to become untangled, right along with invading armies and evil magicians. And I try to make all of my characters, even the 'evil magicians,' something more than flat stereotypes. Even evil magicians get up in the night and look for cookies, sometimes.
"I suppose that in everything I write I try to expound the creed I gave my character Diana Tregarde in Burning Water:
"There's no such thing as 'one, true way'; the only answers worth having are the ones you find for yourself; leave the world better than you found it. Love, freedom, and the chance to do some good -- they're the things worth living and dying for, and if you aren't willing to die for the things worth living for, you might as well turn in your membership in the human race."
Also writes as Misty Lackey
Author's website
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
TL;DR: A fantastic collection, yet again thanks to the wonderful Mercedes Lackey
Source: NetGalley, so many thanks to the publisher!
Plot: Various stories centered in Valdemar, all of which deal with love (romantic and platonic).
Characters: A wide and fantastic cast, I enjoyed almost every single one of these.
Setting: Valdemar is my fictional home away from home so of course I love this.
Fantasy: Magic and talking horses. It’s the best kind of fantasy.
Thoughts:
Valdemar has been my fantasy home away from home since I was a small girl. From a young age, like pre-teen young, I’ve loved these books. It makes sense that typically these collections hit so good. This one especially hit because it’s focus is on love – romantic and platonic. I ate this up with a spoon and was smiling the whole way through (until that last story, ma’am why you gotta leave us hanging?).
Mercedes Lackey has a gift for collecting the right stories for these collections, genuinely. I’ve reviewed several of these and own just as many if not more. I’m always going to have a good time with these. Each story here was strong, I can only think of one that didn’t entertain me from beginning to end and it’s only flaw was I felt it was a hair too long.
If you enjoy Valdemar, or you want to dip your toes into it I can’t recommend this collections enough. It is a high fantasy world so it will take some learning, but this collection was a delight and joy and made me extremely happy to read.
Source: NetGalley, so many thanks to the publisher!
Plot: Various stories centered in Valdemar, all of which deal with love (romantic and platonic).
Characters: A wide and fantastic cast, I enjoyed almost every single one of these.
Setting: Valdemar is my fictional home away from home so of course I love this.
Fantasy: Magic and talking horses. It’s the best kind of fantasy.
Thoughts:
Valdemar has been my fantasy home away from home since I was a small girl. From a young age, like pre-teen young, I’ve loved these books. It makes sense that typically these collections hit so good. This one especially hit because it’s focus is on love – romantic and platonic. I ate this up with a spoon and was smiling the whole way through (until that last story, ma’am why you gotta leave us hanging?).
Mercedes Lackey has a gift for collecting the right stories for these collections, genuinely. I’ve reviewed several of these and own just as many if not more. I’m always going to have a good time with these. Each story here was strong, I can only think of one that didn’t entertain me from beginning to end and it’s only flaw was I felt it was a hair too long.
If you enjoy Valdemar, or you want to dip your toes into it I can’t recommend this collections enough. It is a high fantasy world so it will take some learning, but this collection was a delight and joy and made me extremely happy to read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A collection of short stories from various authors playing in the world created by Mercedes Lackey. Loosely themed around the many types of love.
Why I started this book: Valdemar was one of my first favorite magical series. One that was perfect for a horse-crazy girl eager to save the world. I'll always return with nostalgia and hope.
Why I finished it: Like all short stories collections there is a wild range of stories, some that are great and others that you just rush past hoping that the next one will be better. And I have to admit that there were far more Bards and Healers than Heralds which was not ideal. Your mileage may vary.
Why I started this book: Valdemar was one of my first favorite magical series. One that was perfect for a horse-crazy girl eager to save the world. I'll always return with nostalgia and hope.
Why I finished it: Like all short stories collections there is a wild range of stories, some that are great and others that you just rush past hoping that the next one will be better. And I have to admit that there were far more Bards and Healers than Heralds which was not ideal. Your mileage may vary.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A MANY SPLINTERED THING is the twentieth anthology of short stories set in Mercedes Lackey’s Valdemar world by various authors. Being chosen to write in such a beloved setting must be a great honor. The authors have done an admirable job. While a few stories did not appeal to me (that is to be expected) not every story will resonate with every reader.
I also like that the authors explored different time periods in Valdemar and settings beyond Haven and the Collegium. Some authors even included, or mentioned, much loved characters.
TIME AND TIDES
AUTHOR: Charlotte E. English
RATING: 4.5
Bardic Miriel is grieving the death of her luthier brother. When she finally decides to clear out his room, she finds a familiar shape waiting there. Herald Hiralda has spent years out on Circuit, doing her heraldic duty. When she hears about Davon’s passing, she returns to Haven to help Miriel. Can the two women overcome the misunderstanding that has kept them apart?
TIME AND TIDES is a poignant and bittersweet story. And short. I practically zipped through it. Regardless of its length, I still enjoyed it.
ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD
AUTHOR: Brigid Collins
RATING: 4
After years stationed at Haven, Herald Marli is finally setting out on a Circuit. And she will not travel alone. Her lifebonded partner, Kimfer, a former bandit, will accompany her. A letter from her hometown urges Marli to return. Despite her apprehension about being back, she persuades her friend to seek the medical treatment she needs. Will her hometown open Marli’s eyes to what is important to her?
I feel that parts of the story are missing. If Marli and Kimfer appear as side characters in another book/series, it is possible I have not read it or do not remember them. Sadly, I am behind on Lackey’s books, especially the Collegium books.
TOGETHER
AUTHOR: Fiona Patton
RATING: 4
Laryn, a Bardic trainee, is assigned to compose a song about romance. A friend commissions her to write one about her mother’s current romantic interest. Laryn visits the woman and listens to her stories about her late husband and her new beau. A week later, she presents the song to her friend’s mother before submitting it to her teacher.
This story did not appeal to me overly much. It felt a little lacking. I do like that Laryn took the time to listen to her friend’s mother lament about her past relationship with her husband. And that her song helped the woman decide her relationship with her new beau.
BOUND HEARTS
AUTHOR: Jeanne Adams
RATING: 3
Herald Investigator Beryl and Herald Zaleth have concluded a child-trafficking case. They celebrate their victory at a tavern and decide to act on their attraction. The next day, they wake bound and cut off from their Companions. Beryl and Zaleth are forced to rely on their wits to escape. Their ordeal leads them to another noble involved in child trafficking. Can Beryl and Zaleth stop the noble before another innocent person is harmed? And can they accomplish this without their Companions’ help?
I did not care for this story overly much. It just came off as bland to me. It does touch on some sensitive subjects such as drugging and child-trafficking.
COLLEGIUM CRESENDO
AUTHOR: Jennifer Brozek and Marie Bilodeau
RATING: 3.5
Aimar Noteleaf and Ozan Newsong struggle to adjust to life at the Bardic Collegium. One sings with too much emotional excess, while the other needs to improve his breath control. They also have roommate troubles. Aimar and Ozan search for the perfect song for their end-of-semester performance. At the last moment Ozan chooses a song he knows suits them both. Will Aimar and Ozan win over their audience? Or will they flub their performance?
The only part of the story I enjoyed was the song the two Bardic Trainees performed, “Sun and Shadow”. It is one of my favorite pieces from Mercedes’ filk music. Sadly, I do not own the CD, so I must listen to it on YouTube. I regret not buying more of the CDs when I had the chance years ago. I am not a fan of the new artist performing Lackey’s filk music. I found myself softly singing the lyrics under my breath as I read.
WITHOUT A NAME
AUTHOR: Phaedra Weldon
RATING: 3.5
Herald Reyes remembers neither his childhood in Karse nor his surname. Two important notebooks, ones that hold clues to his past and class notes, have vanished. Reluctantly, and with help from his healer friend, Reyes accompanies his beloved to her parents’ anniversary party. There, he begins to question the mysterious death of her brother. What truths will Reyes unearth? And will his sleuthing cause him to become the next victim?
This story did not appeal to me. I could not get into it or connect with the characters.
HORSES AND HOUNDS
AUTHOR: Ron Collins
RATING: 2.5
Lady Annaliese Brig and Lord Klayton Medrys are both skilled players of Horses and Hounds. Their fathers plan to use their victory to advance their houses in Valdemar. Annaliese and Klayton cannot help admiring one another’s competent abilities. However, Klayton is determined not to allow his father’s underhanded tactics to prevail. Who will win the Horses and Hounds match?
So far, this is my least favorite story in the anthology. I do not see how it fits in the Valdemar world. It focuses on two young nobles playing a game almost like chess. The only clear Valdemar connection is a Herald overseeing the game. I do not remember this game mentioned in any of the books I have read.
I do like how Annaliese and Klayton start off as adversaries. Then, as they start to play, they learn about each other. Soon they start to communicate through their moves, without anyone catching on. Basically, it became their love language.
THE CIRCLE SPEAKS OF LOVE
AUTHOR: Brenda Cooper
RATING: 3
Marjom, a former border herald, is navigating a new relationship with a fellow herald. She and Whitman, her new lover, must prepare the latest group of trainees for war with Ancar. Before they graduate, Majom has one final lesson to depart: the difference between lust, passion, and love. Plus, the consequences each can carry in the field.
This is another story that really did not appeal or resonate with me.
I do like that Marjom and Whitman are seasoned heralds rather than fresh recruits. Marjom initially viewed her transfer as “forced retirement”, and she hesitated to broadcast her relationship with Whitman. But after sharing her past experiences with her students, Marjom decides to embrace it openly.
A PITYING OF TURTLEDOVES
AUTHOR: Elisabeth Waters
RATING: 4
Lord Arvid Melander is not a typical highborn. He is a Novice of the Temple of Thenoth and enjoys his work. Arvid also teaches a herald trainee to use her animal mindspeech gift. When his mother decides it is time for him to marry, she gives him a short list of carefully chosen highborn candidates. In secret, Arvid uses turtledove to learn more about each woman, not to court them but to help them. Will Arvid find his ideal match?
I like that Arvid does not share his mother’s views on social status. He does not care about his future spouse’s class, only that they have compatibility and shared interests. I also like how he uses the information gathered from his animal friends to better understand his mother’s candidates. And help them.
PATRON OF THE ARTS
AUTHOR: Susan Shwartz
RATING: 4.5
Herald Jeri investigates the artist who has captivated the Blues with her caricatures. The woman’s work, especially a portrait of a young noblewoman, helps a grieving Count find solace. After meeting the gifted artist, Jeri suspects there is more to her than she reveals. When a fire breaks out, it becomes clear the woman is being targeted… And the truth about her emerges.
This story features characters that I remember fondly. Alberich, who has been a longtime favorite of mine, Myste, Selenay, and Skif and his Comapnion Cymry. Skif does play a significant role in the background… Talia and Dirk are only mentioned once. Though, it has been a long time since I read the books, I never remember Alberich speaking like Yoda.
COURAGE AFTER ALL
AUTHOR: Stephanie D. Shaver
RATING: 4.5
Maps and Kamden’s relationship changes when Kam is chosen by his Companion at thirteen. He leaves for Haven to begin his heraldic training and duties. She stays behind and eventually marries into a prominent family. Maps soon discovers the true nature of her husband and mother-in-law. Kamden’s return comes just when she needs it most. Will he help exonerate Maps from the charges against her? And will her in-law’s abuse be exposed to their community?
Trigger warning: this story includes depictions of martial abuse. So, readers sensitive to this topic may wish to skip it.
ENCORE
AUTHOR: J.L. Gribble
RATING: 2.5
Bard Keona has every detail planned for her journey south. She even includes two herald trainees to accompany her and her bardic companion. Keona hopes the boys’ presence will make the trip easier for Ellie, who is rumored not to travel well with others. The journey is not what Keona expects, with Ellie getting along with the trainees. The greatest surprise, however, awaits the two heralds-in-training.
I did not get this story at all! It never drew me in. I did like that the two bards are older and experienced rather than young and fresh-faced.
KEEP AND KIN
AUTHOR: Anthea Sharp
RATING: 4.5
Healer Tarek returns home with his bardic love. His younger sister, the new lord of the keep, asks him to care for her quest. Tarek discovers the woman is from Hardorn and that her wound is slow to heal. After hearing her story, Shandara suspects she has Earthsense. They reassure Carinne that Valdemar welcomes such gifts, unlike her homeland.
This story is one of my favorites in this anthology. The four characters are easy to like. I love how confidently Elen held her own against men trying to harm Carinne. She did not let them to belittle her because she is a woman. I also like how Elen offered the Hardorn woman a safe place to stay, where she could use her gift openly and freely.
WHEN THE WIND STOPS BLOWING
AUTHOR: Louisa Swann
RATING: 4.5
Roli and his Tayledras companion has left the Vale to search for his parents. Their journey has been plagued by misfortune, the latest being a terrible storm. They seek shelter at a farmstead where the owner has been wounded by a wyrsa. Roli is asked to brave the storm to bring the healer herald staying at the village. He not only faces his fears but a wyrsa attack. Can Roli return with help before it is too late? And what else does the storm bring?
Finally, a story with a Hawkbrother in it! I would have been disappointed if this anthology had not included one. They have always been my favorite. Yeah, the Hawkbrother’s part in the story is small, but I am alright with it.
CONTRACTS
AUTHOR: Kristin Schwengel
RATING: 3.5
Jaya belongs to a side branch of the Fifty Families of Mornedealth. She is troubled by the growing distance between her and her husband. Jaya tries to reconnect, but when her efforts fail, she turns to her younger brother for help leaving. Throughout the journey, she clings to hope that her husband will come after her. A week after Jaya reaches her destination he appears, bearing small gifts meant to prove his love. Will Jaya forgive Kev? Or is he too late to patch things up between them?
The story came off a little bland for my tastes. What caused the distance? It left more questions than answers. And things between them felt unresolved.
A COURSE ON COURTSHIP
AUTHOR: Dee Shull
RATING: 3.5
Healer Serrill knows little about romance, but he is determined to do right by his beloved. When a friend facing the same dilemma asks for advice, he agrees to seek guidance for them both. Serrill first turns to his fellow Healers but finds no answers. He then widens his search to friends beyond the Healing Collegium. A triad couple offers advice that helps him understand how best to court his Herald.
The story felt a little dry and lackluster to me. It left me feeling “meh”. I just could not empathize with the characters involved.
RIPOSTE
AUTHOR: Paige l. Christie
RATING: 3.5
Kwell sets out to discover why one particular guard is so disgruntled on happening upon trysting couples. She even enlists the help of the guard’s friend, who is often caught in the act by that very guard. First, Kwell and Relea must learn who Teig is interested in. Then they can devise ways for their paths to cross so nature can take its course. Will their plan succeed?
Kwell’s continuous use of puns annoyed me. Again, the story left me feeling meh and disinterested.
GREATER LOVE
AUTHOR: Mercedes Lackey
RATING: 5
Lily and Violet are drudges – much like serfs – on a Holderkin farmstead. Lily, the older sister, has garnered the unwelcome attention of the Father’s spoiled son. Other servants and drudges try to protect her, even urging the sisters to seek refuge at the Temple of the Goddess-Wife. Then an unexpected ally steps in to help Lily, one even the Father and his son cannot dismiss.
They saved the best for last! I always enjoy reading Lackey’s books, especially her Valdemar books. They have a special place in my heart. And this short story is no exception!
I suspected what became of Lily would happen. It was her kind temperament that clued me in. The ending told me that is not the end of her and Violet’s story.
I also like that the authors explored different time periods in Valdemar and settings beyond Haven and the Collegium. Some authors even included, or mentioned, much loved characters.
TIME AND TIDES
AUTHOR: Charlotte E. English
RATING: 4.5
Bardic Miriel is grieving the death of her luthier brother. When she finally decides to clear out his room, she finds a familiar shape waiting there. Herald Hiralda has spent years out on Circuit, doing her heraldic duty. When she hears about Davon’s passing, she returns to Haven to help Miriel. Can the two women overcome the misunderstanding that has kept them apart?
TIME AND TIDES is a poignant and bittersweet story. And short. I practically zipped through it. Regardless of its length, I still enjoyed it.
ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD
AUTHOR: Brigid Collins
RATING: 4
After years stationed at Haven, Herald Marli is finally setting out on a Circuit. And she will not travel alone. Her lifebonded partner, Kimfer, a former bandit, will accompany her. A letter from her hometown urges Marli to return. Despite her apprehension about being back, she persuades her friend to seek the medical treatment she needs. Will her hometown open Marli’s eyes to what is important to her?
I feel that parts of the story are missing. If Marli and Kimfer appear as side characters in another book/series, it is possible I have not read it or do not remember them. Sadly, I am behind on Lackey’s books, especially the Collegium books.
TOGETHER
AUTHOR: Fiona Patton
RATING: 4
Laryn, a Bardic trainee, is assigned to compose a song about romance. A friend commissions her to write one about her mother’s current romantic interest. Laryn visits the woman and listens to her stories about her late husband and her new beau. A week later, she presents the song to her friend’s mother before submitting it to her teacher.
This story did not appeal to me overly much. It felt a little lacking. I do like that Laryn took the time to listen to her friend’s mother lament about her past relationship with her husband. And that her song helped the woman decide her relationship with her new beau.
BOUND HEARTS
AUTHOR: Jeanne Adams
RATING: 3
Herald Investigator Beryl and Herald Zaleth have concluded a child-trafficking case. They celebrate their victory at a tavern and decide to act on their attraction. The next day, they wake bound and cut off from their Companions. Beryl and Zaleth are forced to rely on their wits to escape. Their ordeal leads them to another noble involved in child trafficking. Can Beryl and Zaleth stop the noble before another innocent person is harmed? And can they accomplish this without their Companions’ help?
I did not care for this story overly much. It just came off as bland to me. It does touch on some sensitive subjects such as drugging and child-trafficking.
COLLEGIUM CRESENDO
AUTHOR: Jennifer Brozek and Marie Bilodeau
RATING: 3.5
Aimar Noteleaf and Ozan Newsong struggle to adjust to life at the Bardic Collegium. One sings with too much emotional excess, while the other needs to improve his breath control. They also have roommate troubles. Aimar and Ozan search for the perfect song for their end-of-semester performance. At the last moment Ozan chooses a song he knows suits them both. Will Aimar and Ozan win over their audience? Or will they flub their performance?
The only part of the story I enjoyed was the song the two Bardic Trainees performed, “Sun and Shadow”. It is one of my favorite pieces from Mercedes’ filk music. Sadly, I do not own the CD, so I must listen to it on YouTube. I regret not buying more of the CDs when I had the chance years ago. I am not a fan of the new artist performing Lackey’s filk music. I found myself softly singing the lyrics under my breath as I read.
WITHOUT A NAME
AUTHOR: Phaedra Weldon
RATING: 3.5
Herald Reyes remembers neither his childhood in Karse nor his surname. Two important notebooks, ones that hold clues to his past and class notes, have vanished. Reluctantly, and with help from his healer friend, Reyes accompanies his beloved to her parents’ anniversary party. There, he begins to question the mysterious death of her brother. What truths will Reyes unearth? And will his sleuthing cause him to become the next victim?
This story did not appeal to me. I could not get into it or connect with the characters.
HORSES AND HOUNDS
AUTHOR: Ron Collins
RATING: 2.5
Lady Annaliese Brig and Lord Klayton Medrys are both skilled players of Horses and Hounds. Their fathers plan to use their victory to advance their houses in Valdemar. Annaliese and Klayton cannot help admiring one another’s competent abilities. However, Klayton is determined not to allow his father’s underhanded tactics to prevail. Who will win the Horses and Hounds match?
So far, this is my least favorite story in the anthology. I do not see how it fits in the Valdemar world. It focuses on two young nobles playing a game almost like chess. The only clear Valdemar connection is a Herald overseeing the game. I do not remember this game mentioned in any of the books I have read.
I do like how Annaliese and Klayton start off as adversaries. Then, as they start to play, they learn about each other. Soon they start to communicate through their moves, without anyone catching on. Basically, it became their love language.
THE CIRCLE SPEAKS OF LOVE
AUTHOR: Brenda Cooper
RATING: 3
Marjom, a former border herald, is navigating a new relationship with a fellow herald. She and Whitman, her new lover, must prepare the latest group of trainees for war with Ancar. Before they graduate, Majom has one final lesson to depart: the difference between lust, passion, and love. Plus, the consequences each can carry in the field.
This is another story that really did not appeal or resonate with me.
I do like that Marjom and Whitman are seasoned heralds rather than fresh recruits. Marjom initially viewed her transfer as “forced retirement”, and she hesitated to broadcast her relationship with Whitman. But after sharing her past experiences with her students, Marjom decides to embrace it openly.
A PITYING OF TURTLEDOVES
AUTHOR: Elisabeth Waters
RATING: 4
Lord Arvid Melander is not a typical highborn. He is a Novice of the Temple of Thenoth and enjoys his work. Arvid also teaches a herald trainee to use her animal mindspeech gift. When his mother decides it is time for him to marry, she gives him a short list of carefully chosen highborn candidates. In secret, Arvid uses turtledove to learn more about each woman, not to court them but to help them. Will Arvid find his ideal match?
I like that Arvid does not share his mother’s views on social status. He does not care about his future spouse’s class, only that they have compatibility and shared interests. I also like how he uses the information gathered from his animal friends to better understand his mother’s candidates. And help them.
PATRON OF THE ARTS
AUTHOR: Susan Shwartz
RATING: 4.5
Herald Jeri investigates the artist who has captivated the Blues with her caricatures. The woman’s work, especially a portrait of a young noblewoman, helps a grieving Count find solace. After meeting the gifted artist, Jeri suspects there is more to her than she reveals. When a fire breaks out, it becomes clear the woman is being targeted… And the truth about her emerges.
This story features characters that I remember fondly. Alberich, who has been a longtime favorite of mine, Myste, Selenay, and Skif and his Comapnion Cymry. Skif does play a significant role in the background… Talia and Dirk are only mentioned once. Though, it has been a long time since I read the books, I never remember Alberich speaking like Yoda.
COURAGE AFTER ALL
AUTHOR: Stephanie D. Shaver
RATING: 4.5
Maps and Kamden’s relationship changes when Kam is chosen by his Companion at thirteen. He leaves for Haven to begin his heraldic training and duties. She stays behind and eventually marries into a prominent family. Maps soon discovers the true nature of her husband and mother-in-law. Kamden’s return comes just when she needs it most. Will he help exonerate Maps from the charges against her? And will her in-law’s abuse be exposed to their community?
Trigger warning: this story includes depictions of martial abuse. So, readers sensitive to this topic may wish to skip it.
ENCORE
AUTHOR: J.L. Gribble
RATING: 2.5
Bard Keona has every detail planned for her journey south. She even includes two herald trainees to accompany her and her bardic companion. Keona hopes the boys’ presence will make the trip easier for Ellie, who is rumored not to travel well with others. The journey is not what Keona expects, with Ellie getting along with the trainees. The greatest surprise, however, awaits the two heralds-in-training.
I did not get this story at all! It never drew me in. I did like that the two bards are older and experienced rather than young and fresh-faced.
KEEP AND KIN
AUTHOR: Anthea Sharp
RATING: 4.5
Healer Tarek returns home with his bardic love. His younger sister, the new lord of the keep, asks him to care for her quest. Tarek discovers the woman is from Hardorn and that her wound is slow to heal. After hearing her story, Shandara suspects she has Earthsense. They reassure Carinne that Valdemar welcomes such gifts, unlike her homeland.
This story is one of my favorites in this anthology. The four characters are easy to like. I love how confidently Elen held her own against men trying to harm Carinne. She did not let them to belittle her because she is a woman. I also like how Elen offered the Hardorn woman a safe place to stay, where she could use her gift openly and freely.
WHEN THE WIND STOPS BLOWING
AUTHOR: Louisa Swann
RATING: 4.5
Roli and his Tayledras companion has left the Vale to search for his parents. Their journey has been plagued by misfortune, the latest being a terrible storm. They seek shelter at a farmstead where the owner has been wounded by a wyrsa. Roli is asked to brave the storm to bring the healer herald staying at the village. He not only faces his fears but a wyrsa attack. Can Roli return with help before it is too late? And what else does the storm bring?
Finally, a story with a Hawkbrother in it! I would have been disappointed if this anthology had not included one. They have always been my favorite. Yeah, the Hawkbrother’s part in the story is small, but I am alright with it.
CONTRACTS
AUTHOR: Kristin Schwengel
RATING: 3.5
Jaya belongs to a side branch of the Fifty Families of Mornedealth. She is troubled by the growing distance between her and her husband. Jaya tries to reconnect, but when her efforts fail, she turns to her younger brother for help leaving. Throughout the journey, she clings to hope that her husband will come after her. A week after Jaya reaches her destination he appears, bearing small gifts meant to prove his love. Will Jaya forgive Kev? Or is he too late to patch things up between them?
The story came off a little bland for my tastes. What caused the distance? It left more questions than answers. And things between them felt unresolved.
A COURSE ON COURTSHIP
AUTHOR: Dee Shull
RATING: 3.5
Healer Serrill knows little about romance, but he is determined to do right by his beloved. When a friend facing the same dilemma asks for advice, he agrees to seek guidance for them both. Serrill first turns to his fellow Healers but finds no answers. He then widens his search to friends beyond the Healing Collegium. A triad couple offers advice that helps him understand how best to court his Herald.
The story felt a little dry and lackluster to me. It left me feeling “meh”. I just could not empathize with the characters involved.
RIPOSTE
AUTHOR: Paige l. Christie
RATING: 3.5
Kwell sets out to discover why one particular guard is so disgruntled on happening upon trysting couples. She even enlists the help of the guard’s friend, who is often caught in the act by that very guard. First, Kwell and Relea must learn who Teig is interested in. Then they can devise ways for their paths to cross so nature can take its course. Will their plan succeed?
Kwell’s continuous use of puns annoyed me. Again, the story left me feeling meh and disinterested.
GREATER LOVE
AUTHOR: Mercedes Lackey
RATING: 5
Lily and Violet are drudges – much like serfs – on a Holderkin farmstead. Lily, the older sister, has garnered the unwelcome attention of the Father’s spoiled son. Other servants and drudges try to protect her, even urging the sisters to seek refuge at the Temple of the Goddess-Wife. Then an unexpected ally steps in to help Lily, one even the Father and his son cannot dismiss.
They saved the best for last! I always enjoy reading Lackey’s books, especially her Valdemar books. They have a special place in my heart. And this short story is no exception!
I suspected what became of Lily would happen. It was her kind temperament that clued me in. The ending told me that is not the end of her and Violet’s story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
~Thank you to DAW for the complimentary ARC of A Many-Splintered Thing!~
I've recently been introduced to the Valdemar universe through the Arrows trilogy and the Last Herald Mage trilogy (an instantly beloved series for me), and I am so excited for the opportunity to dive into this anthology of short stories. Overall, I love the stories built on strong character relationships and that highlight the queer normativity of Valdemar. I also appreciate the stories that made efficient use of the shorter space to flesh out its emotional resonance and themes.
1. “Time and Tides” by Charlotte E. English⭐⭐⭐
This is a second-chance sapphic romance between two older women who have decades of yearning and misunderstanding. They're brought together because of grief, and that opens a channel for them to finally be honest about what happened all those years ago and where they wish to go from there. It was a heart-warming and sweet story to open the anthology, though it felt a little unsatisfying that those years of conflict were easily solved with a single conversation.
2. “All the Time in the World” by Brigid Collins⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story features a couple that was life-bonded years ago, despite not being something either initially wanted. Over the years, their relationship has grown into a loving partnership. The two travel to Marli's hometown to visit her childhood best friend Yera who has fallen ill. This visit offers Marli a chance to reflect on what might have been and come to conclusions about where she has ended up. The story is a lovely exploration of reflection and love and how it changes over time.
3. “Together” by Fiona Patton⭐⭐
A class of bards are given an assignment to find inspiration for a song about romance. Laryn listens to the story of a woman who has experienced different loves in her life. For me, the story within a story is too crowded for a tale of this length and feels too overpopulated to fully explore the themes it presents. It has some really hard-hitting quotes, though.
4. “Bound Hearts” by Jeanne Adams⭐⭐⭐
This is one of the more actiony tales in this anthology. It's a higher stakes story with two heralds who have broken up a child-trafficking operation and are tying up some not-so-loose ends. It's entertaining and sufficiently gripping, though lacking in thematic depth and interesting character relationships.
5. “Collegium Crescendo” by Jennifer Brozek and Marie Bilodeau⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two bards reluctantly pair together, despite previous disastrous effects, to perform for their patron and class. I enjoy the way their artistic tension mirrors the relationship tension between them, and how the spontaneity and naturalness of their performance likewise mirrors the resolution between them.
6. “Without a Name” by Phaedra Weldon⭐⭐⭐
This was another more actiony tale along with a dose of mystery. An injured herald/investigator visits the home of the woman he loves and uncovers a murderous plot. It's an engaging conflict, though fairly predictable and may have benefitted from a little more misdirection.
7. “Horses and Hounds” by Ron Collins⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This one is one of my favorites in the anthology. Two characters engage in a high-stakes strategy game, both on the board and with their very lives. I love how they find ways to communicate through the moves they make, a secret language between two very competent players.
8. “The Circle Speaks of Love” by Brenda Cooper⭐⭐⭐
This story explores different forms of love and sexuality, featuring two people later in their lives. They openly discuss the potential complications and considerations of pursuing sexual and romantic relationships with young folks, which showcases something I love about Valdemar, the healthy sexual freedom! The story itself is heavy in theme, though light in plot happenings.
9. “A Pitying of Turtledoves” by Elisabeth Waters⭐⭐
A temple dedicant faces pressure from his family to marry a high-born woman. The story has a Regency-like courtship setup, with expectations around marriage and social position, while he is, if he must, seeking a partner who can match his love of animals. I like the idea of the set-up, though I don't feel the two interact enough to have believable desire between them; it seems their only compatibility is compassion for animals.
10. “The Patron of the Arts” by Susan Shwartz⭐⭐
This one initially had me very excited because it features some familiar faces, Jeri, Albrecht, and Skif. There's artistic patronage, connection through grief and loss, and a mystery culminating in a high-stakes confrontation. However, the plot jumps around and lost me along the way. As much as I enjoyed the returning cast, I was just confused about what was happening on the page.
11. “Courage After All” by Stephanie D. Shaver⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Another story that is a favorite for me. Maps and Kam are childhood friends and share a closeness and a burgeoning potential romance before he is Chosen. Though initially Kam sends a couple of letters to Maps, the communication peters out. Maps moves on with her life, and her choices have consequences she couldn't have anticipated. She's left in a dark situation with only one friend who is in a dark situation of their own. I love the characters in this one, especially Maps with her passion and determined resilience. What happened to her isn't erased, but she still gets the happy ending she deserves.
12. “Encore” by J.L. Gribble⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two older bards with an obvious but unspoken relationship tension travel with two herald trainees. It's an interesting journey as they pass the tension between themselves and through the two bemused young men that accompany them. It's fun to try to figure out what the dynamics actually are, and what has these two so prickly with each other. The ending is particularly satisfying, but I won't say more!
13. “Keep and Kin” by Athena Sharp⭐⭐⭐
I was sufficiently engaged by this one, though I affirm that a short story generally doesn't have enough space for a story within a story. The interesting aspect of this is the escape of a woman and her unique magical abilities. I think the story would have been better served by her perspective and in chronological order. She is the one whose choices move the story, so she ought to be the protagonist.
14. “When the Wind Stops Blowing” by Louisa Swann⭐⭐
A man is seeking his long-lost parents by journeying with a hawkbrother to his land of origin. They are caught in a storm and seek shelter in the home of a couple, and the man then braves the storm and a mythical beast to save a life. There is so much in this premise that excited me, particularly the hawkbrother, but it left me disappointed. Most of the story focuses on the journey through the storm to find a healer, with not much interaction with the hawkbrother. In addition, the man doesn't address his initial purpose of the journey, to find his parents. Even if he didn't find his parents, the ending could still have been satisfying if the quest was brought back around in some capacity.
15. “Contacts” by Kristin Schwengel⭐⭐
A neglected wife leaves her husband after giving up hope that he truly loves or cares for her. Though the circumstances are hard, she makes a tough choice to leave a life that isn't bringing her joy. But truthfully, she's still holding a sliver of hope that her husband will demonstrate his love by finding her. For me, I think such deep neglect and disregard is not as easily solved as the story demonstrates, so it didn't land for me. It might work for others, because there's certainly a sweetness there. Maybe I'm too jaded for this one.
16. “A Course on Courtship” by Dee Shull⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two friends are hopeless at romance. They both have a partner they wish to woo, but no clue how to do it. The male friend seeks advice from different folks, gaining different perspectives on relationships. Some are practical partnerships, some prioritize sex over love, some fall into it with little effort, but some make deliberate choices to understand their partners' desires and to meet them there. I like how this story showcases different types of relationships, and is ultimately able to distill relationship advice down to a single, central point: "Romance is where you show the other person you've been paying attention to what makes them happy." I also appreciate the representation for aromantic and polyamorous relationships.
17. “Riposte” by Paige L. Christie⭐⭐⭐
Full of puns and romantic comedy vibes, this is about guards in a castle who are frustrated by romantic endeavors. Some are getting walked in on in amorous situations, and others are upset that they aren't getting any. It's a light-hearted story of helping a friend get the romance they're craving and giving space for others to do the same (or just giving them the space to make a lot of bad puns). It's fun, if not particularly profound.
18. “Greater Love” by Mercedes Lackey⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The legend, the woman herself writes a story to close out the anthology. We visit a home much like the one Talia comes from, but from the perspective of the lowest of the servants. It looks at power dynamics and vulnerability. It's always difficult to read about violence against women, but Mercedes Lackey brings it back to some semblance of justice and an ending with the promise of happiness (even if the end itself is not what I would call a happy ending).
I've recently been introduced to the Valdemar universe through the Arrows trilogy and the Last Herald Mage trilogy (an instantly beloved series for me), and I am so excited for the opportunity to dive into this anthology of short stories. Overall, I love the stories built on strong character relationships and that highlight the queer normativity of Valdemar. I also appreciate the stories that made efficient use of the shorter space to flesh out its emotional resonance and themes.
1. “Time and Tides” by Charlotte E. English⭐⭐⭐
This is a second-chance sapphic romance between two older women who have decades of yearning and misunderstanding. They're brought together because of grief, and that opens a channel for them to finally be honest about what happened all those years ago and where they wish to go from there. It was a heart-warming and sweet story to open the anthology, though it felt a little unsatisfying that those years of conflict were easily solved with a single conversation.
2. “All the Time in the World” by Brigid Collins⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story features a couple that was life-bonded years ago, despite not being something either initially wanted. Over the years, their relationship has grown into a loving partnership. The two travel to Marli's hometown to visit her childhood best friend Yera who has fallen ill. This visit offers Marli a chance to reflect on what might have been and come to conclusions about where she has ended up. The story is a lovely exploration of reflection and love and how it changes over time.
3. “Together” by Fiona Patton⭐⭐
A class of bards are given an assignment to find inspiration for a song about romance. Laryn listens to the story of a woman who has experienced different loves in her life. For me, the story within a story is too crowded for a tale of this length and feels too overpopulated to fully explore the themes it presents. It has some really hard-hitting quotes, though.
4. “Bound Hearts” by Jeanne Adams⭐⭐⭐
This is one of the more actiony tales in this anthology. It's a higher stakes story with two heralds who have broken up a child-trafficking operation and are tying up some not-so-loose ends. It's entertaining and sufficiently gripping, though lacking in thematic depth and interesting character relationships.
5. “Collegium Crescendo” by Jennifer Brozek and Marie Bilodeau⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two bards reluctantly pair together, despite previous disastrous effects, to perform for their patron and class. I enjoy the way their artistic tension mirrors the relationship tension between them, and how the spontaneity and naturalness of their performance likewise mirrors the resolution between them.
6. “Without a Name” by Phaedra Weldon⭐⭐⭐
This was another more actiony tale along with a dose of mystery. An injured herald/investigator visits the home of the woman he loves and uncovers a murderous plot. It's an engaging conflict, though fairly predictable and may have benefitted from a little more misdirection.
7. “Horses and Hounds” by Ron Collins⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This one is one of my favorites in the anthology. Two characters engage in a high-stakes strategy game, both on the board and with their very lives. I love how they find ways to communicate through the moves they make, a secret language between two very competent players.
8. “The Circle Speaks of Love” by Brenda Cooper⭐⭐⭐
This story explores different forms of love and sexuality, featuring two people later in their lives. They openly discuss the potential complications and considerations of pursuing sexual and romantic relationships with young folks, which showcases something I love about Valdemar, the healthy sexual freedom! The story itself is heavy in theme, though light in plot happenings.
9. “A Pitying of Turtledoves” by Elisabeth Waters⭐⭐
A temple dedicant faces pressure from his family to marry a high-born woman. The story has a Regency-like courtship setup, with expectations around marriage and social position, while he is, if he must, seeking a partner who can match his love of animals. I like the idea of the set-up, though I don't feel the two interact enough to have believable desire between them; it seems their only compatibility is compassion for animals.
10. “The Patron of the Arts” by Susan Shwartz⭐⭐
This one initially had me very excited because it features some familiar faces, Jeri, Albrecht, and Skif. There's artistic patronage, connection through grief and loss, and a mystery culminating in a high-stakes confrontation. However, the plot jumps around and lost me along the way. As much as I enjoyed the returning cast, I was just confused about what was happening on the page.
11. “Courage After All” by Stephanie D. Shaver⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Another story that is a favorite for me. Maps and Kam are childhood friends and share a closeness and a burgeoning potential romance before he is Chosen. Though initially Kam sends a couple of letters to Maps, the communication peters out. Maps moves on with her life, and her choices have consequences she couldn't have anticipated. She's left in a dark situation with only one friend who is in a dark situation of their own. I love the characters in this one, especially Maps with her passion and determined resilience. What happened to her isn't erased, but she still gets the happy ending she deserves.
12. “Encore” by J.L. Gribble⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two older bards with an obvious but unspoken relationship tension travel with two herald trainees. It's an interesting journey as they pass the tension between themselves and through the two bemused young men that accompany them. It's fun to try to figure out what the dynamics actually are, and what has these two so prickly with each other. The ending is particularly satisfying, but I won't say more!
13. “Keep and Kin” by Athena Sharp⭐⭐⭐
I was sufficiently engaged by this one, though I affirm that a short story generally doesn't have enough space for a story within a story. The interesting aspect of this is the escape of a woman and her unique magical abilities. I think the story would have been better served by her perspective and in chronological order. She is the one whose choices move the story, so she ought to be the protagonist.
14. “When the Wind Stops Blowing” by Louisa Swann⭐⭐
A man is seeking his long-lost parents by journeying with a hawkbrother to his land of origin. They are caught in a storm and seek shelter in the home of a couple, and the man then braves the storm and a mythical beast to save a life. There is so much in this premise that excited me, particularly the hawkbrother, but it left me disappointed. Most of the story focuses on the journey through the storm to find a healer, with not much interaction with the hawkbrother. In addition, the man doesn't address his initial purpose of the journey, to find his parents. Even if he didn't find his parents, the ending could still have been satisfying if the quest was brought back around in some capacity.
15. “Contacts” by Kristin Schwengel⭐⭐
A neglected wife leaves her husband after giving up hope that he truly loves or cares for her. Though the circumstances are hard, she makes a tough choice to leave a life that isn't bringing her joy. But truthfully, she's still holding a sliver of hope that her husband will demonstrate his love by finding her. For me, I think such deep neglect and disregard is not as easily solved as the story demonstrates, so it didn't land for me. It might work for others, because there's certainly a sweetness there. Maybe I'm too jaded for this one.
16. “A Course on Courtship” by Dee Shull⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two friends are hopeless at romance. They both have a partner they wish to woo, but no clue how to do it. The male friend seeks advice from different folks, gaining different perspectives on relationships. Some are practical partnerships, some prioritize sex over love, some fall into it with little effort, but some make deliberate choices to understand their partners' desires and to meet them there. I like how this story showcases different types of relationships, and is ultimately able to distill relationship advice down to a single, central point: "Romance is where you show the other person you've been paying attention to what makes them happy." I also appreciate the representation for aromantic and polyamorous relationships.
17. “Riposte” by Paige L. Christie⭐⭐⭐
Full of puns and romantic comedy vibes, this is about guards in a castle who are frustrated by romantic endeavors. Some are getting walked in on in amorous situations, and others are upset that they aren't getting any. It's a light-hearted story of helping a friend get the romance they're craving and giving space for others to do the same (or just giving them the space to make a lot of bad puns). It's fun, if not particularly profound.
18. “Greater Love” by Mercedes Lackey⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The legend, the woman herself writes a story to close out the anthology. We visit a home much like the one Talia comes from, but from the perspective of the lowest of the servants. It looks at power dynamics and vulnerability. It's always difficult to read about violence against women, but Mercedes Lackey brings it back to some semblance of justice and an ending with the promise of happiness (even if the end itself is not what I would call a happy ending).
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As much as I love Mercedes Lackey and her tales of Valdemar, this is actually the first time that I've read one of her multi-author anthologies. Suffice to say, I intend to go back and catch up - and with this being the 2oth volume, there's plenty to catch up on.
Before I get into the stories themselves, I need to say a few things about theme and characters. First off, these are not necessarily stories about love, but they are stories where love and connection are central to the plot. Whether it's the love of family and friends, the love between companions, or the love between romantic partners, that need for connection is key. Secondly, this is an anthology where love is offered (and accepted) freely, regardless of gender, with same-sex connections prominent in many of the stories.
The anthology opens with TIME AND TIDES by Charlotte E. English, which pairs the love found in grieving lost family with that of rekindled relationships. Miriel and Hiralda, Bard and Herald, are a lovely couple, and I found myself grieving that their story was over so soon. The next tale, ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD by Brigid Collins, continues that strong opening with another story that pairs love of family with love of lifebonded partners. This one felt like an excised chapter of a longer story, but that just drew me in deeper.
BOUND HEARTS by Jeanne Adams was, by far, the darkest tale in the collection, dealing with child-trafficking, drugging, and kidnapping. It falls prey to one of my least favorite tropes, that of the characters temporarily losing their memories or their powers, but I still found it a powerful story with a satisfying climax. Ironically, WITHOUT A NAME by Phaedra Weldon falls prey to the very same trope, but I enjoyed the mystery of it, especially as it leads to a very public unveiling of crimes and conspiracies.
THE CIRCLE SPEAKS OF LOVE by Brenda Cooper is, perhaps, a little too on-the-nose in exploring the theme of love, but I did enjoy it. On one level, we have a secret love between Heralds, and on another, we have a very open discussion about love and lust on the battlefield. One illuminates the other, and I thought it a novel lesson for new recruits. Similarly, COURAGE AFTER ALL by Stephanie D. Shaver explicitly confronts the difference between love and lust, between chosen lovers and arranged marriage, which makes the theme of love hard to ignore. It's a story with darkness as well, but it's also one of romantic heroism, which I wholeheartedly approve.
There's a stretch of stories that felt a little safe or a little bland to me, but I understand an anthology needs to vary the pace, the tension, and the emotions in order for stories to stand out. On that note, RIPOSTE by Paige Christie was a more playful story, almost a romantic comedy in many ways, and I thoroughly enjoyed it as a welcome change of pace.
Finally, that brings us to GREATER LOVE by Mercedes Lackey herself, the tale of Lily and Violet, a pair of drudges on a farmstead. Here we have the pure, clean love between friends and family contrasted with the dark, violent lusts of spoiled young men. There's real tension to this story, especially since we know that, no matter who takes them in, the girls would not escape so easily, but there's also hope. Most importantly, this is a Mercedes Lackey story, and it reads beautifully, drawing us in, keeping us engaged, and (of course) leaving us wanting more.
In the end, any excuse to return to Valdemar is a good one, and the one thing the authors here have in common is that they clearly love and appreciate the world Lackey has created as much as the rest of us.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Before I get into the stories themselves, I need to say a few things about theme and characters. First off, these are not necessarily stories about love, but they are stories where love and connection are central to the plot. Whether it's the love of family and friends, the love between companions, or the love between romantic partners, that need for connection is key. Secondly, this is an anthology where love is offered (and accepted) freely, regardless of gender, with same-sex connections prominent in many of the stories.
The anthology opens with TIME AND TIDES by Charlotte E. English, which pairs the love found in grieving lost family with that of rekindled relationships. Miriel and Hiralda, Bard and Herald, are a lovely couple, and I found myself grieving that their story was over so soon. The next tale, ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD by Brigid Collins, continues that strong opening with another story that pairs love of family with love of lifebonded partners. This one felt like an excised chapter of a longer story, but that just drew me in deeper.
BOUND HEARTS by Jeanne Adams was, by far, the darkest tale in the collection, dealing with child-trafficking, drugging, and kidnapping. It falls prey to one of my least favorite tropes, that of the characters temporarily losing their memories or their powers, but I still found it a powerful story with a satisfying climax. Ironically, WITHOUT A NAME by Phaedra Weldon falls prey to the very same trope, but I enjoyed the mystery of it, especially as it leads to a very public unveiling of crimes and conspiracies.
THE CIRCLE SPEAKS OF LOVE by Brenda Cooper is, perhaps, a little too on-the-nose in exploring the theme of love, but I did enjoy it. On one level, we have a secret love between Heralds, and on another, we have a very open discussion about love and lust on the battlefield. One illuminates the other, and I thought it a novel lesson for new recruits. Similarly, COURAGE AFTER ALL by Stephanie D. Shaver explicitly confronts the difference between love and lust, between chosen lovers and arranged marriage, which makes the theme of love hard to ignore. It's a story with darkness as well, but it's also one of romantic heroism, which I wholeheartedly approve.
There's a stretch of stories that felt a little safe or a little bland to me, but I understand an anthology needs to vary the pace, the tension, and the emotions in order for stories to stand out. On that note, RIPOSTE by Paige Christie was a more playful story, almost a romantic comedy in many ways, and I thoroughly enjoyed it as a welcome change of pace.
Finally, that brings us to GREATER LOVE by Mercedes Lackey herself, the tale of Lily and Violet, a pair of drudges on a farmstead. Here we have the pure, clean love between friends and family contrasted with the dark, violent lusts of spoiled young men. There's real tension to this story, especially since we know that, no matter who takes them in, the girls would not escape so easily, but there's also hope. Most importantly, this is a Mercedes Lackey story, and it reads beautifully, drawing us in, keeping us engaged, and (of course) leaving us wanting more.
In the end, any excuse to return to Valdemar is a good one, and the one thing the authors here have in common is that they clearly love and appreciate the world Lackey has created as much as the rest of us.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this anthology as an ARC by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Many Splintered Thing is the 17th installment of the Valdemar anthologies, which allow other authors to play in the world of Mercedes Lackey. Although I’m not normally a fan of anthologies, I always make an exception for these. After all, aren’t we all united in our love of all things Valdemar!
Every new anthology I get reacquainted with some old favourites, among others Charlotte E. English as well as Fiona Patton whose Iron Street Watch stories, featuring the Dann family, are most enjoyable. Overall, the quality of the stories in this book was really high; there are always a few that don’t do it for me, but perhaps someone else did enjoy those.
And let’s not forget of course, we get a marvellous story by the Grandmaster herself, which never fails to stun me.
Well-deserved five stars!
A Many Splintered Thing is the 17th installment of the Valdemar anthologies, which allow other authors to play in the world of Mercedes Lackey. Although I’m not normally a fan of anthologies, I always make an exception for these. After all, aren’t we all united in our love of all things Valdemar!
Every new anthology I get reacquainted with some old favourites, among others Charlotte E. English as well as Fiona Patton whose Iron Street Watch stories, featuring the Dann family, are most enjoyable. Overall, the quality of the stories in this book was really high; there are always a few that don’t do it for me, but perhaps someone else did enjoy those.
And let’s not forget of course, we get a marvellous story by the Grandmaster herself, which never fails to stun me.
Well-deserved five stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Many-Splintered Thing is another amazing anthology set in the Valdemar Universe. It features some amazing authors as well as a feature story by Mercedes Lackey. Each story is set as a small snapshot into the lives of the characters, but somehow still shows them as complete and developed. Many of the stories focused on love and the ways it can be broken and/or healed, be it between lovers, family, or friends. I especially liked Horses and Hounds by Ron Collins and Greater love by Mercedes Lackey. I would love to see either of these stories fill out or continued in a full book. I highly reccomend this book to anyone who enjoys short stories. While it is helpful to know of the world of Valdemar, I think you might be able to get away with reading it even if this is your first experience with the universe.
I received a copy from NetGalley and am leaving this review of my own volition.
I received a copy from NetGalley and am leaving this review of my own volition.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for the e-ARC of A Many-Splintered Thing!
4 / 5 ⭐
As always, the stories are, in general, very enjoyable, and Lackey's contribution at the end is especially impactful. I really enjoyed the depth added to the lore of the Holds by Greater Love, Lackey's story at the end.
As painful, broken loves are the theme of this collection, some of the stories contained heavy themes. Greater Love featured a Son of a Hold who is abusive to the serving-class members of the Hold. Courage After All by Shaver, about halfway through the book, detailed various forms of abuse including SA, CSA, and physical abuse. Still an excellent anthology, but dealing with heavier themes than the others. People do not end the stories in abusive relationships.
4 / 5 ⭐
As always, the stories are, in general, very enjoyable, and Lackey's contribution at the end is especially impactful. I really enjoyed the depth added to the lore of the Holds by Greater Love, Lackey's story at the end.
As painful, broken loves are the theme of this collection, some of the stories contained heavy themes. Greater Love featured a Son of a Hold who is abusive to the serving-class members of the Hold. Courage After All by Shaver, about halfway through the book, detailed various forms of abuse including SA, CSA, and physical abuse. Still an excellent anthology, but dealing with heavier themes than the others. People do not end the stories in abusive relationships.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This latest compilation of stories set in Mercedes Lackey's wonderful Valdemar world
is all about LOVE in all its many varied forms . From first love to love in later years ,
when most consider it has passed them by ; from singular love to multi partnered
love , all types are covered in this book .
As I've found in previous compilations the books range from very good to those
that could have been written in any setting with no connection to Valdemar .
Some were too short but most were just right - so overall this was a welcome
dip into a multifaceted world created by a talented Author .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
is all about LOVE in all its many varied forms . From first love to love in later years ,
when most consider it has passed them by ; from singular love to multi partnered
love , all types are covered in this book .
As I've found in previous compilations the books range from very good to those
that could have been written in any setting with no connection to Valdemar .
Some were too short but most were just right - so overall this was a welcome
dip into a multifaceted world created by a talented Author .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this ebook ARC from the publisher via Netgalley.
I grew up reading Mercedes Lackey, as a teenager and then as a young adult, then adult. Valdemar and the master storytelling of Lackey shaped my entire view of fantasy as a genre in so many good ways. So I was genuinely delighted to be approved for this ARC of short stories by various authors celebrating Valdemar, plus a new short story from the wonderful Mercedes Lackey herself.
Overall, this is a great collection. Nothing was less than good, though some I thought were great and came close to living up to Lackey's genius. Aside from Lackey's own story, my favorites were Together by Fiona Patton, about a young Bard learning what love and romance can mean, and Bound Hearts by Jeanne Adams, about two Herald investigators who are kidnapped. The stories varied in terms of being focused on entirely new characters, or bringing us back to familiar faces like Jeri, Alberich, and Skif.
A must-read for anyone who loves Valdemar and the people who inhabit that world.
I grew up reading Mercedes Lackey, as a teenager and then as a young adult, then adult. Valdemar and the master storytelling of Lackey shaped my entire view of fantasy as a genre in so many good ways. So I was genuinely delighted to be approved for this ARC of short stories by various authors celebrating Valdemar, plus a new short story from the wonderful Mercedes Lackey herself.
Overall, this is a great collection. Nothing was less than good, though some I thought were great and came close to living up to Lackey's genius. Aside from Lackey's own story, my favorites were Together by Fiona Patton, about a young Bard learning what love and romance can mean, and Bound Hearts by Jeanne Adams, about two Herald investigators who are kidnapped. The stories varied in terms of being focused on entirely new characters, or bringing us back to familiar faces like Jeri, Alberich, and Skif.
A must-read for anyone who loves Valdemar and the people who inhabit that world.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
One of my earliest introductions to fantasy was The Last Herald Mage trilogy and it’s remained a favorite. I generally always love returning to Valdemar either to re-read old favorites or in this case to read a series of short stories. This was a great selection of stories featuring a variety of characters and themes set across the world of the Valdemar series. I think it’s a great option for anyone who has read these books and just wants a little more. Each story is a great length and with enough detail to be satisfying on its own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Arc Copy...I admit it was kind of strange but interesting to read the world of Valdemar by a another writer's hand. it was like looking into the world of from another character's mind set. My favorite was Misty's tale and I am very much wondering will we get more tales involving the sisters Lily and Violet after the crap their went through in their story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have loved Mercedes Lackey's Valdemar series of books for over 25 years.
I'm so grateful to my friend who first introduced me to her books.
I've read nearly all of the anthologies and have loved them all.
This one has lived up to my expectations.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
I'm so grateful to my friend who first introduced me to her books.
I've read nearly all of the anthologies and have loved them all.
This one has lived up to my expectations.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As seems usual for these anthologies, the stories vary in quality from okay to very good. Some of them seem rather run-of-the-mill, while others approach excellent. It is a worthwhile addition to the Valdemar setting in that it continues to expand the world beyond the heralds and the court.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
As with all anthologies, some stories are better than others. The Mercedes Lackey is a standout, but there were many solid stories in here.
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